This is Gavin Newsom

Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder joins to unpack the alarming threats to democratic institutions and voting rights. He highlights the dangers of gerrymandering and how it undermines communities of color. Holder discusses the minimal political consequences of a potential government shutdown and emphasizes the importance of maintaining DOJ independence. He also sheds light on the National Democratic Redistricting Committee's mission to counter voter suppression tactics and the chilling effect of deploying troops domestically.

Brandon Ewing, known as Atrioc, is a content creator and former Twitch/NVIDIA employee who dives into the complexities of gaming culture. He challenges the myth that violent games lead to real-world violence, arguing they offer community for isolated individuals. The discussion shifts to Gen-Z's political disillusionment and the value of college degrees in today's economy. Brandon also warns about the dangers of financial predators like crypto and gambling targeting young people, advocating for policy solutions that address economic inequalities.

Elizabeth Warren, U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, shares insights on accountability and the critical nature of midterms. Veteran actor Martin Sheen emphasizes civic responsibility and the importance of voting. U.S. Representatives Jasmine Crockett and Sydney Kamlager-Dove discuss the threats of redistricting to communities of color and the urgent need for Prop 50. Maxwell Frost highlights the fight against election rigging, urging the younger generation to mobilize. The rally bursts with passionate calls for action to protect democratic values.

Sean Spicer, former White House Press Secretary, shares insights on the evolving landscape of political loyalty, particularly towards Trump. He reflects on his transition to podcasting and the challenges of misinformation in media today. The conversation delves into the complexities of governance, discussing the balance between loyalty and accountability in presidential cabinets. Spicer also addresses the economic hurdles facing young Americans and raises concerns about government influence on economic data, highlighting significant implications for capitalism and public trust.

Jaime Harrison, former chair of the Democratic National Committee and host of At Our Table, dives into the importance of fighting for every vote and effective messaging. He shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing and the mentors who shaped his commitment to social justice. Harrison emphasizes the need for a strong Democratic infrastructure to regain public trust and revive the party's brand. He also discusses the significance of authenticity in political dialogue, particularly within marginalized communities, and the intersection of politics and sports.

Jasmine Crockett, a civil rights attorney and U.S. Representative for Texas's 30th district, discusses the alarming threats to democracy, focusing on Donald Trump’s systematic attacks on voting rights. She highlights the consequences of gerrymandering, especially in Texas, and the necessity for legislative measures like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. Crockett also critiques the disparate approaches of Democrats and Republicans towards voter participation, emphasizing the importance of political accountability and community mobilization in safeguarding democracy.

In this engaging conversation, historian Heather Cox Richardson shares insights on American political history and election integrity. She discusses Governor Newsom's efforts to prevent election rigging amid rising political tensions. The two delve into the recent special election in California and the impact of redistricting on democracy. Richardson emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement and independent redistricting to uphold democratic values, while also addressing the need for political reforms to ensure fair elections.

Beto O'Rourke, former Texas Representative and founder of Powered By People PAC, dives into the urgent fight against voter suppression in Texas. He discusses the political tensions surrounding voting rights and the mobilization of grassroots support in response to powerful intimidation tactics. O'Rourke highlights the risks he's taking, including calls for his arrest, and emphasizes the importance of collective action for democratic integrity. His passion shines through as he advocates for empowering citizens in the face of emerging threats to democracy.

Gina Hinojosa, a Texas House member known for fighting gerrymandering, joins Ann Johnson, former chief human trafficking prosecutor focused on public service, and Ray Lopez, who battles political gamesmanship. They discuss the urgent challenges facing Texas voters amid suppression tactics and a controversial anti-voter bill. The conversation dives into their commitment to fair representation, the emotional landscape post-floods, and the need for democratic principles as they navigate the political arena. Their passion for empowering their communities shines through.

Listener questions spark a deep dive into California's redistricting efforts and the threat of gerrymandering ahead of the 2026 midterms. The discussion raises concerns about Trump's impact on labor statistics and democratic integrity. It highlights the growing issues of unemployment and inflation, labeled as stagflation, and their effects on civic trust. The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive measures to safeguard democracy and encourages community dialogue and engagement in preserving political truth.